Algonquin Books Blog

I’m having a hard time writing this. In a few short days, Sarah Rose Nordgren–Algonquin’s beloved publicity assistant and one of my closest friends–will be leaving us to depart for the beaches of Provincetown, where she will begin her second poetry fellowship at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, MA.

I’m trying to figure out what to say about Sarah Rose without crying at my computer, so I decided to make a list of things that make her lovable and wonderful and quirky and magical.

Sarah Rose puts honey in her iced coffee.

Sarah Rose is a trained yoga teacher who teaches the most relaxing yoga classes (in her free time!).

Sarah Rose has been published in many fine places, including here and here.

Sarah Rose cooks a mean ratatouille.

These are only a few things about my friend, the beautiful poet, with whom I have spent many a lunch hour. Sarah Rose always takes care of others and herself, suggesting we walk away from our desks for a few moments to catch some much needed Vitamin D. She is quick to share book recommendations and she makes a mean mix CD. She is gifted with words and she is consistently patient. She is funny and she is an awesome dancing partner. Let me tell you, this girl can dance like nobody’s business.

Sarah Rose, we hate that you’re leaving (I really hate it most of all), but we know you’ll go on to write wonderful books and take the poetry world by storm. Please come back and visit us soon, to guide us through one more downward dog exercise!

Xox,

Megan (and Algonquin)

P.S. I have many photos of Sarah Rose and myself. This one seemed the best for the Algonquin blog–and yes, we are DANCING!

I am heartbroken that Sarah is leaving and here’s why:
1. You (Sarah) saved my butt on the road so many times–and always with grace and humor and style
2. You’re funny and warm and you never minded when I forgot my plane itineraries yet again.

I’m going to miss you buckets. And while I have Megan here, let me just say that Megan is a goddess and I don’t know what I would do without her.

xxx Caroline Leavitt

September 23, 201111:25 am

Sarah Rose Nordgren says...

Thank you so much all, and especially Megan for this sweet send-off! I’m going to miss Algonquin and will carry you all in my hearts up into the windy, wintry North!

P.S. Caroline — you were always a pleasure! Big hugs to you.

September 23, 201111:33 am

jonathan evison says...

. . . sarah rose, you have been absolutely amazing in too many ways to count . . . no way i could have navigated the tour process or the publishing process without your guidance and patience and kindness! . . . you have much good will coming to you! . . .provincetown is so lucky to have you!

Huge congratulations Sarah! You have been so awesome to work with at Algonquin — and I can’t wait to see you take the world by storm with your poetry — wishing you many words and all the best! xo, heidi

September 23, 20112:13 pm

Hillary Jordan says...

Sarah Rose, I’m so excited for you! Knock ‘em dead and keep me posted on publications (of which I’m sure there will be many) and other exciting news.
All best,
Hillary

September 26, 20114:39 am

Stuart Bernstein says...

Sarah Rose, you were such a pleasure to work with during our brief collaboration. We’ll miss you, but hopefully we’ll find you again through your work. Good luck!